China Welcomes U.S.-Iran Agreement
On Monday, China’s Foreign Ministry expressed its approval of the announcement made the previous day that Iran and the United States had reached an agreement aimed at ceasing hostilities, with a memorandum of understanding set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday.
President Trump revealed on Sunday that after weeks of negotiations, both nations have come to terms, signaling a ceasefire and addressing the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. For context, this area has seen Iranian actions disrupting global trade through piracy, while the U.S. has responded with blockades on Iranian vessels.
Trump celebrated the agreement on his Truth Social account, stating, “The agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran is complete. Congratulations everyone! I hereby fully authorize the free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and at the same time authorize the immediate lifting of the U.S. naval blockade. Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”
Once the memorandum is signed, the two countries will enter another 60 days of negotiations aimed at achieving a more lasting peace, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities, according to both President Trump and Iranian state media. Trump has previously stated he will not support any peace deal that does not put an end to Iran’s uranium enrichment, voicing concerns about the country’s nuclear capabilities. In response, Iranian officials are advocating for the lifting of financial sanctions and the unfreezing of assets abroad as well as access to international oil markets.
China, a key player along with Iran in this conflict, has been significantly impacted by these tensions. They’ve recognized Iran as a prominent oil buyer and an influential member of the BRICS coalition against U.S. interests. As tensions escalated, Iran conducted missile strikes against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), sparking further conflict. The Chinese government, including Xi Jinping, has continuously urged all parties, including Iran, to stop their disruptive actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
In light of the recent peace agreement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its support. Spokesperson Lin Jian said during a regular press conference that China is pleased with the agreement reached by the U.S. and Iran and acknowledged Pakistan’s role in mediation. “We hope that the document will be signed on schedule and that all parties commit to a peaceful resolution through dialogue,” he remarked. He also mentioned China’s readiness to contribute actively to long-term peace in the Middle East.
“Restoring stability in the strait aligns with the mutual interests of regional nations and the global community,” Lin noted. “China aims to maintain communication with both regional and international partners on these matters.”
When asked by Turkish media if China had a role in mediating the memorandum, Lin hinted at China’s involvement by highlighting its call for peace. However, he offered no direct evidence of concrete influence in the negotiation process.
While China remains one of Iran’s closest allies and crucial to its economy due to oil purchases, the Chinese Communist Party has also expressed opposition to Iran’s violent tactics in the Strait. Interestingly, Xi previously told Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that China advocated for an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire” to ensure safe shipping routes.
Following a visit from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in May, the Ministry reaffirmed its stance against trade disruption, stating a unified international concern exists regarding restoring safe navigation in the Strait. China hopes all relevant parties will respond promptly to these calls.
